A pair of rare Fabergé jewelled gold and platinum cufflinks, workmaster August Hollming, St Petersburg, 1911

each link of teardrop form, set with a cabochon chrysoprase issuing a band of rose-cut diamonds, the surface layered with matte finish platinum-silver alloy, struck with workmaster's initials, 56 standard, scratched inventory number 87617, in original Fabergé wood box

Purchased from Fabergé's London branch by Mrs Claude Watney in 1911 for £14.

Very good condition. One chrysoprase has been replaced and is slightly darker than the other three; the original chrysoprase is present. Minor surface scratches on the matte finish platinum-silver. The wood case with loss at one hinge.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Mrs Watney (1878-1933) was born Ada Annie Nunn and married, in Marylebone in 1895, Claude Watney (1866-1919), son of James Watney, of the well-known brewing family.  The Washington (DC) Herald announced her visit to that city with some fanfare in 1913, with the headline "Mrs. Claud Watney Again Is In Town, Arrives with Two Motor Cars, Two Chauffeurs, Nurse, Maid, Footman, Groom, and a Husband" (23 February 1913).  The article notes that "for some time Mrs. Watney moved in fairly high circles, but her somewhat too broad-minded views and unconventional mode of life proved rather too much for the sedate.... Mrs Watney is frowned upon by the court, but she can still gather around her some charming members of society."  The striking modernity of these cufflinks seems to have been in keeping with her personality.